If you’re hoping to accommodate multiple car seats or would like to comfortably fit a couple back seat passengers alongside your child’s car seat, you’ll want to check out the Rainier Convertible Car Seat from Diono. Known for making car seats that are high on safety but light on bulk, Diono is the company behind the popular Radian car seat, a highly regarded model among parents seeking space-saving car seats. While the new Rainier is slightly wider at the top than its popular predecessor, it’s still considerably narrower than most seats on the market. For us, that’s great news, as I refuse to trade my beloved, but admittedly compact, sedan for a larger SUV or minivan.

The Rainier is 28.5” high by 16″ deep, but the most impressive dimension is the 18.5” width. Unlike most car seats, this actually gives me the option of my son in one car seat, my daughter in another car seat next to him and still comfortably seating a third passenger beside them. At the same time the interior of the seat is roomy enough to provide a comfortable ride for my child.

While the size of the Rainier is certainly the biggest selling point for me, I’m thrilled that the best-fit option is also one of the safest options with several features that improve performance in the event of a crash. To start, it’s widely recognized that the rear-facing position is safer than front facing, and the Rainier enables you to keep your child rear facing up to 50 lbs – most convertible car seats top out at 40 lbs. For rear-facing mode, the Rainier also provides a rear-facing tether, which reduces the amount of rebound upon impact. Note that most cars don’t have rear-facing tether anchors, so Diono also provides a strap for turning the base of your front seats into anchors. For front-facing mode, the Rainier includes a SafeStop load-limiting strap, which helps absorb the energy of the crash, diminishing the force felt by your child.

The seat itself is comprised of a full steel frame and aluminum reinforced sides. While this makes it heavier that many seats at 26 lbs, you can be sure you have one solid seat, and the weight really isn’t an issue if you don’t plan on moving the seat once it’s installed. For side impact protection, the Rainier is padded in energy-absorbing EPS foam, and the additional inch width that the top of the Rainier has over the Radian allows for thicker head protection as well as new extra deep side walls with a rigid double wall design. With so many safety features, the Rainier has passed NCAP crash tests, the industry benchmark for seat performance in severe accident conditions.

The seat of the Rainier sits lower than most, another safety benefit, while also providing an easier path for getting your child in and out of the seat. Toddlers love that this also gives them the added independence of climbing in and out of the seat themselves.

As with many convertible car seats, the Rainier provides a one car seat solution from birth through the end of your child’s car seat days, eliminating the need for an infant car seat. While infant car seats do have a number of advantages including portability, ability to combine with a stroller as a travel system and, in many cases, increased safety, not having to purchase two separate car seats can be a huge benefit, especially when it comes to your wallet. Children start by sitting rear facing from 5 to 50 lbs, with additional head and body padding to help cushion infants. You’ll want to keep your child rear facing as long as possible, with a switch generally triggered by complaints about comfort as your child outgrows this position. Luckily, the Rainier’s longer seat should buy you extra time. Forward-facing mode accommodates children from 20 to 90 lbs (or up to 57” in height). Should you want to continue using your Rainier as a booster, it can hold children between 50 to 120 lbs (or up to 57” in height).

The Rainier is highly customizable to comfortably and safely fit your growing child. The aluminum-reinforced headrest adjusts to 12 height positions, and there are 5 shoulder harness positions and 3 buckle positions to choose from. The sides of the seat can also be angled out. Given how long your child can remain in this seat, it’s great to know that the Rainier has an 8-year product life as a harnessed seat and an additional 4 years as a booster, which is longer than most other car seats.

Another big question we always get about car seats is “how easy is it to install?” As with all car seats, it’s best if you can see the seat in person and do a trial installation in your car, as all cars are different and some are more or less compatible than others. For example, check that you can wedge the foot of the detachable base between the back and seat of your car’s back seat and check that you have enough front-to-back room to accommodate the seat in rear-facing mode without impeding your front seat. If the seat does intrude too far into your front seat, note that you can purchase a separate angle adjuster that puts the seat in a more upright position.

Once you’ve determined that the Rainier will work with your car, installation is easy, especially with SuperLATCHTM, which should be compatible with all cars manufactured after September 2002. If you don’t have LATCH or prefer to use the seat belt method, don’t fret, as installation with a seat belt is pretty straightforward as well. Note that you’ll also need to use the seat belt method once your child exceeds 35 lbs in rear-facing mode or 40 lbs in forward-facing mode. To help you with installation, videos are available on the Diono website.

In addition to use in cars, Diono seats are also ideal for air travel. They fold flat and are FAA-approved for use on an airplane. Note that the seat is heavy, but you can purchase a separate strap or two to carry it over your shoulder or wear it backpack style. Also, the Rainier is only meant to be used as a harnessed seat on an airplane. Please do not try using it as a booster on a plane.

Because we know your child will spend a good amount of time in his car seat, and that this often involves food, some dirt and an occasional accident, you’ll be happy to know that the Rainier cover is machine washable in a front-loading machine and can also be tumble dried on low for easy maintenance. It’s always a nice benefit when you can refresh your car seat from time to time!

To recap, here are some things we love about the Rainier:

• Narrow seat = more car seats/passengers in your back seat!

• Longer rear-facing position up to 50 lbs

• The only seat you’ll need with infant support pillows, rear-facing, front-facing and booster modes as well as an industry-leading 12 year product life

• High degree of adjustability with adjustable headrest, multiple harness and buckle positions and sides that can be expanded

• Low sides that make it easy to get your child in and out of the seat

• Simple installation with a SuperLATCHTM option as well as tethering capabilities in both front and rear-facing positions

• Folds flat for convenient travel (though a bit on the heavy side at 26 lbs)

A great seat for those who want safety, comfort and a car seat that will let them optimize the space in their back seat, the Rainier is available for $339.99 in 6 colors and patterns. Learn more from the Diono website, including where to find a retailer near you.

]]>http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/car-seats/rainier-convertible-booster-car-seat-from-diono/feed/0Combi Fold N Go Double Strollerhttp://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/strollers/combi-fold-n-go-double-stroller
http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/strollers/combi-fold-n-go-double-stroller#commentsWed, 25 Mar 2015 17:42:33 +0000http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/?p=41270 Our family loves going for walks in the neighborhood, but it gets more challenging now that we have two little ones. Our preschooler often still wants to sit in the stroller, while her younger brother is more enthusiastic to take off running – unfortunately, not always in the desired direction. If we don’t need to […]

Our family loves going for walks in the neighborhood, but it gets more challenging now that we have two little ones. Our preschooler often still wants to sit in the stroller, while her younger brother is more enthusiastic to take off running – unfortunately, not always in the desired direction. If we don’t need to be anywhere soon, this is totally fine, but when we actually need to stay on schedule, our Combi Fold N Go Double Stroller is the perfect solution.

The stroller is a side-by-side double. For me, “side-by-side double” typically translates to “HUGE,” while “Combi” conveys “compact,” so I was very curious to see the Combi Fold N Go Double Stroller in person. What greeted me was an ideally sized stroller for two. As expected, it is bigger than a single stroller, but the size is totally manageable. At 31.25” wide, it fits through most doorways and is easily navigated down sidewalks and store aisles. I’ve driven other side-by-side strollers in the past, and this definitely isn’t the norm. I was also pleasantly surprised to find that the Combi Fold N Go Double actually steers better than many single strollers I have. This is mostly due to the greater stability of the wider base and the wider padded handlebar that provides more leverage to push into turns. As a more petite individual, I’m often using much of my strength to keep my stroller from veering into slanted driveways. Not so with the Combi Fold N Go Double!

One of my favorite features is how easily the Combi folds and remains in a standing position, keeping the stroller from awkwardly falling over as I collapse it. This means no scraping the sides of the stroller against the pavement or my wooden floors. This also means a smaller footprint in its storage mode, making it easy to leave in my entryway. With an aluminum frame, the Fold N Go is relatively lightweight, coming in at just over 21 lbs.

In use, the stroller is perfect for two little ones and, with 5-point harnesses, is suitable for kids aged 6 months up to 50 lbs. My kids couldn’t wait to climb into the Combi and did so right in our living room. When they noticed they each had a cup holder and shared a snack holder, they also ran to grab their drinks and crackers. While the snack holder generally sits between the two seats, we also like to switch it out for one of the cup holders when we buy them a smoothie to share. A couple of bendy straws make this the perfect drink sharing spot. Have no fear providing food and drink in this stroller. The material wipes off easily with a damp cloth or sponge.

While my two kids enjoy sitting side by side so that they can point things out to each other and laugh and giggle, they also love that each side has an independent canopy, letting them achieve a bit of privacy if they choose. The canopies are generously sized, making for great sun and wind protection. At the part closest to the parent, the canopies are mesh with a cover that can be lifted to provide visibility and air flow into the stroller. Each seat reclines independently of the other, allowing you to recline one side for a napping child without disturbing the other child. The padded seats and front wheel suspension provide a comfortable ride, and the front wheels can also be locked for traversing rough terrain. A large undercarriage basket provides plenty of room for an outing’s provisions.

Setting the brake on the Combi Fold N Go Double is simple with a single bar that stretches the length of the back of the stroller. Given the weight of two kids and the fact that I live on a pretty steep hill, I’m glad to report that the brake holds very well. The harness buckles can be a little difficult to unlock, but this does provide the benefit of keeping my kids secure as the older one has a habit of snapping herself out of buckles that easily come apart.

One more point worth mentioning is the Fold N Go’s ease of assembly. Knowing that a double stroller was on its way, I was prepared to spend an afternoon putting it together. I was pleasantly surprised to find that all I had to do was snap the wheels, cup holders, snack holder and canopies in place. Easy!

So, if you’re looking for a stroller that will accommodate two, I highly recommend the Combi Fold N Go Double Stroller. Here’s a quick recap of the reasons why:

]]>http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/strollers/combi-fold-n-go-double-stroller/feed/0Wonderful Oogaa spoons and bowlshttp://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/feeding/wonderful-oogaa-spoons-and-bowls
http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/feeding/wonderful-oogaa-spoons-and-bowls#commentsFri, 13 Mar 2015 21:57:54 +0000http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/?p=41089 These spoons and bowls are fantastic! The oogaa silicone spoons are the perfect size to feed Baby just the right amount in each bite. They are colorful and bright and fun to use. Best of all, they have teething ridges on the bottom of the spoons. For a baby just learning to eat, this makes […]

These spoons and bowls are fantastic! The oogaa silicone spoons are the perfect size to feed Baby just the right amount in each bite. They are colorful and bright and fun to use. Best of all, they have teething ridges on the bottom of the spoons. For a baby just learning to eat, this makes introducing food much easier.

The spoons are made of a silicone material which is rubbery and soft, but firm enough to let the baby gum it. The ridges make it easy for the baby to get used to the new sensory experience of eating off of a spoon. The spoons fit perfectly into the baby’s mouth. The angle of the spoon is terrific– most of the food actually gets into the baby’s mouth! And the thick, soft silicone works well to scoop up whatever food doesn’t make it in. In addition to the ridged spoons– which are more simple looking– there are some for “storytelling” feeding, complete with planes and trains, also made out of silicone. The fun designs allow for feeding games.

The bowls are made of a more flexible silicone and are just perfect for mashing up soft foods. The bowls are a great size, easy to handle and very easy to wash.

Babies will love using these products. They make feeding time fun, safe and easy. I absolutely love these Oogaa silicone baby feeding products!

]]>http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/feeding/wonderful-oogaa-spoons-and-bowls/feed/0Bugaboo Buffalo Stroller Spotlight Reviewhttp://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/strollers/bugaboo-buffalo-stroller-spotlight-review
http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/strollers/bugaboo-buffalo-stroller-spotlight-review#commentsTue, 10 Mar 2015 04:38:55 +0000http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/?p=41037 Have you been looking for a stroller with the style of the Bugaboo Cameleon but the ruggedness of the Bugaboo Donkey? Meet the Buffalo. It’s like a love child of both strollers. The Buffalo is a luxury stroller with a smart design, innovative features, and amazing maneuverability. SEAT The Buffalo seat has a weight capacity […]

Have you been looking for a stroller with the style of the Bugaboo Cameleon but the ruggedness of the Bugaboo Donkey? Meet the Buffalo. It’s like a love child of both strollers.

The Buffalo is a luxury stroller with a smart design, innovative features, and amazing maneuverability.

SEAT

The Buffalo seat has a weight capacity of 50 lbs which is much higher than we are used to with a Bugaboo. The stroller can be used from birth (with the included carrycot) . The seat is 13″ wide with a 19″ seat back and a measurement of 22″ from back of seat to canopy. The adjustable, 5-point harness keeps your little one safely in the seat and is easy to adjust. The seat has a one-handed recline that is easy to do with a white lever on the back of the seat. NOTE: An interesting fact about Bugaboo is that all their strollers’ white pieces have a function on the stroller.

]]>http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/strollers/bugaboo-buffalo-stroller-spotlight-review/feed/0Epson Perfection V550 Photo Scannerhttp://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/other/epson-perfection-v550-photo-scanner
http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/other/epson-perfection-v550-photo-scanner#commentsFri, 27 Feb 2015 09:16:35 +0000http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/?p=40920 As a new parent, there is no doubt that you’re swimming in photos. While many are digital, there are likely a good number of prints still floating around as well. Whether they are sent from visiting family and friends or remnants of past years and generations, these photos are often just as valuable, but much […]

As a new parent, there is no doubt that you’re swimming in photos. While many are digital, there are likely a good number of prints still floating around as well. Whether they are sent from visiting family and friends or remnants of past years and generations, these photos are often just as valuable, but much harder to keep organized. For months, it’s been on my to-do list to scan our family’s physical photos to store them with all my digital shots, but the feat just seemed too overwhelming. Luckily, the Epson Perfection V550 Scanner, makes it easy to digitize all your prints, slides and negatives. It even makes them look better!

While my all-in-one printer has scanning functionality, the V550 produces better quality scans and saves time, making it a welcome addition to our home office. One of the most amazing features is the ability to batch scan multiple photos at once. The auto-edge detection can actually crop and separate your photos into individual files. All you have to do is leave a little bit of space between your photos, and the scanner does the rest. It can do the same with slides and negatives as well. Scan these formats using the included transparency unit. Once scanned, you can de-select photos that you don’t want – a huge time saver, given that you may have to sift through a few slides and negatives to find the photos that are really worth keeping.

To enhance your photos, Epson uses DIGITAL ICE technology to remove dust and scratches from your photos as well as the accompanying Easy Photo Fix software to restore faded images. It’s pretty magical to see old photos brought back to life right before your eyes. Play with the settings a bit to see how you can easily transform old photos to bright and vivid ones.

The V550 has 4 modes with varying levels of automation and control. Full Auto Mode is the simplest, detecting what you’re scanning and optimizing accordingly for the best determined output. Home Mode provides more options, allowing you to specify document type, resolution, target size and image adjustments such as color restoration and dust removal. Professional Mode gives you the full ability to customize all settings, letting you determine how best to preserve each image. This is great for really cherished photos. If you just want to scan a few documents and aren’t as concerned about quality, opt for Office Mode, which is optimized for fast scanning.

While the V550 can convert text documents to editable text, it’s definitely better suited to image scanning with its great photo enhancing features. So, go with the V550 if you only scan a couple text documents every now and then. It’ll definitely fit your needs. However, for more intense document scanning, I’d recommend going with a printer/scanner combination such as the Epson XP-820 Small-in-One, which comes with an automatic paper feed and dual-side scanning.

New to the Epson line is a great new feature that uses the accompanying Easy Photo Scan software to immediately upload images to email, Facebook, Picasa and other cloud-based services, including Dropbox. This makes it a breeze to both save and share your photos, ensuring they get much more exposure and enjoyment than they would remaining in a shoebox. Other options include sending directly to your printer or emailing the image as an attached jpeg. CD and USB slots provide additional methods for transferring photos to or from your scanner.

The scanner bed is large enough for letter-sized paper, so it’s also fantastic for scanning my daughter’s artwork, producing a really nice quality digital copy. And, if I decide you want a poster-sized version, the V550 scans at high enough resolution (6400 x 9600 dpi) to let me enlarge up to 17” x 22.”

The V550 uses LED technology, which is great for several reasons. For one, it makes for faster warm-up times, so you can start scanning sooner. In addition, it’s a good move for the environment with greater energy efficiency and no mercury.

The V550 is compact at 4.6” x 11.2” x 19.1” and retails for $199.99, giving you a couple more good reasons to drag those photos out of your closet and revitalize your family memories.

While we love the Epson Perfection V550, another noteworthy recent addition to the Epson scanner line is the Epson Perfection V19. A more compact photo and document scanner, the V19 sells for only $69.99. It scans at 4800 x 4800 dpi resolution and, like the V550, has the ability to upload to Facebook, Picasa and other cloud services. Great for tight desktop spaces, the V19 had a built-in kickstand that lets you keep it in an upright position and is powered through a USB connection to your computer.

To learn more about both the Epson Perfection V550 and the V19 as well as other products in the Epson line, check out www.epson.com.

]]>http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/other/epson-perfection-v550-photo-scanner/feed/0Hampton Creek’s Just Cookie Dough – Cookie Dough You Can Eat!http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/food-beverage/cookie-dough-you-can-eat
http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/food-beverage/cookie-dough-you-can-eat#commentsFri, 27 Feb 2015 07:15:12 +0000http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/?p=40914 Pregnancy is one of the most exciting times in one’s life, but it does have its drawbacks – no sushi, no cold cuts, no soft cheeses, and no cookie dough. Nine months craving these tasty but forbidden treats can seem like forever. Luckily, for those who are currently pregnant, cookie dough is back on the menu. Hampton […]

Pregnancy is one of the most exciting times in one’s life, but it does have its drawbacks – no sushi, no cold cuts, no soft cheeses, and no cookie dough. Nine months craving these tasty but forbidden treats can seem like forever. Luckily, for those who are currently pregnant, cookie dough is back on the menu. Hampton Creek has come to the rescue with a cookie dough that’s free of raw eggs!

With egg and dairy-free options, Hampton Creek foods are ideal for those who are pregnant, vegan or watching their cholesterol. However, many more are sure to indulge, as Hampton Creek foods are also delicious and often cheaper that their animal-based counterparts. I know what you’re thinking – cookie dough without milk and eggs? How is that even possible? After personally sampling some myself, I can vouch that Hampton Creek’s plant-based version is just as good, if not better, than most cookie dough you’ve tasted. You won’t miss the milk or egg one bit.

Because Just Cookie Dough eliminates raw eggs and uses heat-treated flour, it eliminates the two key culprits behind salmonella. So, not only is this cookie dough fine for pregnant ladies, it’s also safer for the other members of your family. Of course, if you prefer baked cookies, Just Cookie Dough can also be placed in the oven, transforming into a perfect combination of crisp and chewy that rivals most non-vegan cookies you’ve tasted. Chances are, most people wouldn’t guess they were eating dairy and egg-free cookies unless they were explicitly told.

So how do they do it? Hampton Creek has set about to reinvent food as we know it, providing a more sustainably produced, more affordable option that is also tastier, safer and more in line with our various food needs. Knowing that egg production can be energy intensive and, in many cases, involves caged chickens, Hampton Creek’s first goal has been replacing the egg. Their team of scientists and data analysts has cataloged plants around the world to find the most suitable matches – ones with texture and cooking properties similar to the egg. As difficult as this sounds, Hampton Creek has already succeeded with their Just Mayo line and now with Just Cookie Dough. Next, they’re going after the actual egg, aiming to launch Just Scramble at the end of the year. I had the pleasure of sampling their latest Just Scramble prototype in their San Francisco headquarters. Even knowing that I wasn’t eating a real egg, it was hard to believe it was anything other than an egg. With just a couple more modifications, there’s no doubt they have the world’s first eggless scrambled egg nailed.

While it’s already quite a feat that Hampton Creek has found an egg replacement, even more impressive is their commitment to keeping their foods affordable and accessible, so that you’re not forced to make the choice between quality and price. Imagine how easy grocery shopping gets once the tastiest choice is also the healthiest, cheapest and most responsibly produced.

Hampton Creek’s Just Cookie Dough is currently available in chocolate chip and can be found at select Whole Foods ($4.99 for 14oz) and Costcos ($6.79 for 32 oz), with supplies soon spreading to Krogers, Ralphs, King Soopers and Fred Meyers across the country. Learn more about Hampton Creek at www.hamptoncreek.com or find some at your local grocery store. Enjoy! You can now have cookie dough once again!

]]>http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/food-beverage/cookie-dough-you-can-eat/feed/0Zabada Bathroom Glove and Bathroom Marvelhttp://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/cleaning/zabada-bathroom-glove-and-bathroom-marvel
http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/cleaning/zabada-bathroom-glove-and-bathroom-marvel#commentsFri, 30 Jan 2015 22:51:06 +0000http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/?p=39775 Cleaning the bathroom is one of those tasks that gets put off in our household. One, it’s a lot of work. Two, it’s nearly impossible to do with kids around, since I don’t want them anywhere near me as I’m spraying cleaning solvents – even if the products are labeled as green and chemical free. […]

Cleaning the bathroom is one of those tasks that gets put off in our household. One, it’s a lot of work. Two, it’s nearly impossible to do with kids around, since I don’t want them anywhere near me as I’m spraying cleaning solvents – even if the products are labeled as green and chemical free. When I heard that there was a cleaning product that does away with cleaning solvents and just relies on plain water, I had to give it a try. Of course, given how long I had put off cleaning, Zabada’s cleaning products were up for a challenge!

I started my task with the Zabada Bathroom Glove. This is a 2-sided mitt that you wear on your hand. A Clean side is great for removing calcium, lime, mold and soap that can build up around sinks, bathtubs and showers. The Care side is ideal for surfaces such as mirrors and chrome fixtures that scratch easily and need a gentler cleaning.

Each side is covered with Austrian-fibers that are 100 times smaller than a human hair. This lets the fibers get into the tiniest spots to remove and trap grime and bacteria. The dirt stays attached to the fibers until you rinse the Glove out, meaning that it won’t transfer from surface to surface. That makes my job a lot easier!

The Bathroom Glove is 6” x 8” for a good-sized cleaning surface that lets you clean large areas quickly. To get started, just run the glove under water and gently ring out the excess. Then, start cleaning. By just using water, Zabada relieves you of any worry about your children being around potentially dangerous chemicals AND saves you money by removing the need for cleaning solutions. All of this sounded too good to be true, but a quick side-by side test on the bathtub showed that Zabada does indeed do a remarkable cleaning job. Surprisingly, it actually cleaned faster and did a more thorough job than my regular cleaning spray in combination with a sponge. Most impressive was how easily it picked up the grime that had built up in the grout between my tiles. I finished up with Zabada and had a sparkling tub in no time.

After cleaning with the Bathroom Glove, it’s recommended to follow up with the Zabada Bathroom Marvel, a 16” x 18” super absorbent cloth that dries surfaces on contact, ensuring that there’s no wetness where bacteria can breed. The Marvel is also nice in that it doesn’t leave lint or streaks, giving your surfaces a shiny, polished look. I actually don’t think I’ve ever seen my bathroom mirror cleaner than it was after my Zabada cleaning.

When you’re done cleaning, just rinse out the Bathroom Glove and Marvel. Then, hang to dry. If they’re very soiled and need more of a refresh, hand wash with laundry soap and then toss in a mesh laundry bag (also available from Zabada and free with some purchases) and wash in your washing machine. Just note that it’s highly recommended not to use fabric softeners on these products. Hang dry after the wash cycle.

Both products are made to last 2 to 3 years for an estimated 1000 cleanings. So, while they may initially seem pricey with the Bathroom Glove selling for $40 and the Marvel selling for $30, they do end up being very cost effective in the long run, replacing the need for towels, sponges, paper towels and cleaning solutions.

In addition to the bathroom products, Zabada carries an entire line of cleaning products for kitchens, windows, floors and general household cleaning. If you’re looking for a new way of cleaning that is safe for your kids, easy to use and is gentle on your wallet and the environment, I’d definitely recommend Zabada. It’s fast, simple and gets the job done. Learn more about the Bathroom Glove and Bathroom Marvel along with Zabada’s entire family of cleaning products at www.zabadaclean.com.

]]>http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/cleaning/zabada-bathroom-glove-and-bathroom-marvel/feed/0Leeo Smart Alert Nightlighthttp://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/other/leeo-smart-alert-nightlight
http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/other/leeo-smart-alert-nightlight#commentsSat, 24 Jan 2015 22:51:16 +0000http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/?p=39567 As a parent, it’s hard not to worry. For the most part, everything turns out fine, but given how difficult it is for me to turn off that part of my brain, I’m thankful for products like Leeo, which help set my mind at ease. Leeo monitors your home’s existing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors […]

As a parent, it’s hard not to worry. For the most part, everything turns out fine, but given how difficult it is for me to turn off that part of my brain, I’m thankful for products like Leeo, which help set my mind at ease. Leeo monitors your home’s existing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and sends alerts to your phone should either alarm sound. Every second counts when it comes to reacting to fire or carbon monoxide, so the more immediate the alert the better. And, now, in case of an emergency, you can even take control from afar.

Leeo arrived just as my family was headed out for a weeklong vacation. Seemed like a perfect time to test the device, so I unwrapped the box, plugged Leeo into a power outlet, installed the app and did a quick test to make sure it recognized my smoke and CO alarms. Quick and simple, it was easy to do even while madly packing and rushing to catch our flight. It took less than 10 minutes. That’s pretty remarkable when you consider what this device does. It keeps your home safe, and all you have to do is plug it in and install an app. No fancy wiring or monthly subscription. You can rest assured it will watch over your house without fear that you set it up wrong or missed paying a bill. I love when new technology is this easy!

The accompanying free app is compatible with iPhone 4S or later, running iOS 7 or later, and can be downloaded from the App Store. Once installed, the app walks you through the setup process, asking you to create an account and pairing with your Leeo device. Part of the process includes entering your phone number and emergency contacts. Should Leeo detect either your smoke or CO alarm, it will call you and send a push notification. If you don’t respond, it’ll call your emergency contacts in the order that you list them. The call is an automated call that alerts you that an alarm has been detected. It then plays back a short snippet of what it’s hearing. This is so helpful, especially in the first few weeks when Leeo is still differentiating between your alarms and other similar noises, such as car alarms and screaming babies – yes, my son did set Leeo off during one especially loud tantrum. Luckily, you can tell Leeo that this is not a true alarm, and Leeo will use this information to calibrate itself. If it ever is a real emergency, this sound snippet will prevent any hesitation to call the fire department.

Through the app, you can also check and set alerts for your home’s temperature and humidity. This is helpful for ensuring comfort and health. Infants sleep best at temperatures between 65 – 70 degrees F, and humidity is best kept between 35-45% to avoid issues with respiratory infections, dry eyes or itchy skin. By keeping an eye on conditions with Leeo, you can better understand if your home is fine-tuned for your family’s wellness. This is also helpful if you’re away from your house and want to be alerted if the temperature dips, which could be important if you have pets or are possibly in danger of pipes bursting.

Leeo is about 4 inches in diameter and a couple inches thick, a compact unit that not only alerts you of danger, but also doubles as a fancy nightlight. You can even change the color of Leeo’s glow via the app. Kids love this, and we change up the color now and then, just for fun. At my daughter’s request, Leeo recently glowed red to celebrate the holidays. Highly customizable, Leeo can take on the full spectrum of colors and can also be dimmed for variable brightness. The only watch out is that Leeo is so attractive that my toddler loves to play with and will unplug it from the wall. Given that, you may need to find an outlet that is unreachable by little ones to ensure connectivity.

Generally, you only need one Leeo per floor, with a location within hearing distance of your alarms. At $99, Leeo is highly affordable, and, once purchased, there are no recurring fees. The Smart Alert Nightlight packs a complex product into a beautiful, easy-to-use package that keeps your family safe and comfortable. Learn more about Leeo at www.leeo.com.

]]>http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/other/leeo-smart-alert-nightlight/feed/08 Gadgets from CES for new moms and dadshttp://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/8-gadgets-from-ces-for-new-moms-and-dads
http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/8-gadgets-from-ces-for-new-moms-and-dads#commentsTue, 20 Jan 2015 22:39:38 +0000http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/?p=39394 I’m back this week from 5 arduous days covering the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, on the prowl for new electronics solutions for moms and dads. Here are eight new devices I saw as I covered 6 convention halls full of new technology. 1. Temp-traq adhesive thermometer patches These band-aid like patches can be used on […]

These band-aid like patches can be used on adults but are especially good for babies when you might want to monitor them when they are ill and feverish. Fevers can be dangerous in infants, so this is one case where having a mobile app that sends continuous readings, as well as alerts, can be very valuable. The Temp-traq is currently under FDA review but I’m told the individual throw-away strips will be affordable for their purpose.

This silicone pacifier is bluetooth enabled to monitor your baby’s temperature. It can also you helps you track the runaway paci under the couch through the connected app.

3. Naptime baby monitor and parent bracelets

This monitor is a classic audio baby monitor but also can differentiate between ambient noise and baby cries. But it’s special power is that it rotates its alerts between mom and dad depending on who’s “turn” it is. If you’ve ever had a fight at 3AM about who needs to get up, this is the gizmo for you! Is this something you really need? Of course not. Will mom ever be satisfied if dad has 50% of the turns? Of course not!

4. Intel Smart Clip

The Intel Smart Clip addresses “forgotten baby syndrome,” a tragic, though fairly rare situation where a mom or dad inadvertently leaves a baby or sleeping child in a car. Like most parents, when I read about these horrible tragedies, I say to myself, “there but for the grace of God go I.” While the media often demonizes the poor mom or dad who has now just lost their entire life to grief, the truth is that this could happen to anyone. If owning this device makes any new mom or dad sleep that much easier, I’m all for it.

Packed with features including nighttime sleepwalker alert, under-bed-monster defense system, and bed-activated night lights, this is some kind of bed!

6. Baby Glgl – This new bottle from Slow Control connects to a Smartphone app (sound familiar?) so that you can monitor and track baby’s consumption, including alerts for air intake issues that cause gas and colic. In general, there is no substitute for an involved parent, but in ongoing colic and gas issues, you can imagine this being very useful.

7. Bellabeat - Bellabeat is a “natural” technology company with a line of products that do “smart” things, but come in wood casings to give a natural feel. You can tell by the names of their three intro products, “Balance,” “Leaf,” and “Shell,” that we are more in the realm of the zen retreat than we are in a plastic-filled nursery. The activity tracker here is a soft blend of metal and wood (5 choices of types), and connects to their smartphone app that tracks both activity and sleep. They also make a smart scale and baby monitor.

8. Kodak Baby Monitor – Another wood accented product is the new Kodak Baby Monitoring system, designed by Seedonk a provider of video care monitoring services. A camera unit monitors baby and an audio unit is provided for monitoring, but video monitoring can be done via smartphone or tablet app. In this caser, the Kodak brand is used more for it’s family-friendly values than anything the erstwhile film manufacturer adds to the product.

]]>http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/8-gadgets-from-ces-for-new-moms-and-dads/feed/0Combi F2 Strollerhttp://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/strollers/combi-f2-stroller
http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/buyers-guide/strollers/combi-f2-stroller#commentsMon, 19 Jan 2015 08:40:29 +0000http://www.pregnancymagazine.com/?p=39407 When it comes to compact and lightweight, my go-to brand is Combi. Originating in Japan, Combi designs with space-constraint and travel concerns top of mind. Their F2 Stroller is a recent addition to their line, and it does not disappoint when it comes to delivering high performance in an ultra streamlined form, which is ideal […]

When it comes to compact and lightweight, my go-to brand is Combi. Originating in Japan, Combi designs with space-constraint and travel concerns top of mind. Their F2 Stroller is a recent addition to their line, and it does not disappoint when it comes to delivering high performance in an ultra streamlined form, which is ideal for those of us who don’t want a large stroller parked in our homes or who like to get out and about with little bulk.

Great for public transportation and travel, the F2 Stroller weighs only 8.6 pounds, which is quite noticeably lighter than most strollers, especially for longer walks and those that take you up hills. It’s also convenient if you need to carry your stroller much, whether up and down your front stairs or in and out of vehicles. In addition, the F2 is a good option for grandparents looking for a lightweight option.

The Combi F2 conveniently opens and folds with one hand. Since I’m usually holding onto my child with my other hand, this feature is high on my list for strollers. Simply slide the lock over with your thumb and pull up on the release lever with your index finger. As the stroller starts to unfold, put your foot on the rear axle and give the back of the stroller a gentle nudge forward with your knee to fully deploy it. A reassuring click lets you know the stroller is ready to go. Folding up the stroller is just as easy. Unlock and release as before and then with foot on back axle, pull the handle towards you and then down. It its folded state, the F2 measures 19” W x 11.5” D x 33.5” H. Note that this doesn’t get you down to the size of a traditional umbrella stroller. The benefit, however, is that the F2 remains standing in its folded state, making it easy to leave in a small entry way, where it’s out of the way but ready to go whenever you need it. The self-standing fold also comes in handy when leaving your stroller in the jet way before boarding a plane or as you stand waiting for public transportation.

The F2 has a mesh seat, which allows for excellent breathability, making this a great stroller for warmer weather. The seat does recline, but note that it doesn’t go into a full recline, so you’ll want to save this stroller for when your child can sit up on her own – generally at about 6 months. With a five-point harness that can easily convert to three and two slots for adjusting the height of the shoulder straps, this stroller will grow with your child and accommodate her up to 40 pounds. With this range, I can use the F2 for both my 1.5-year old toddler and my 4-year old preschooler. The seat is a bit shallower than most at 6 inches, but it seems perfectly comfortable, even for my 4-year old.

Other great features of the Combi F2 Stroller include a shock absorbing frame and lockable front swivel wheels, making this stroller more comfortable and manageable than most lightweight strollers when it comes to uneven terrain. When unlocked, the front wheels have great maneuverability and that, combined with a soft, foam handlebar, make this stroller a pleasure to push. The back wheels need to be locked independently, but both locking and unlocking are simple with a rocker lock that is shoe-friendly. No scuffing your shoe trying to unlock the wheels from underneath!

The F2 has a nicely designed canopy, which curves downward in order to shield your child from sun and wind. This canopy meets with gleeful squeals from our two children who love that the canopy also acts as a privacy shield for them.

One thing to note is that the storage basket isn’t huge on the F2, so it’s better suited for trips where you don’t it to need to lug a lot of extra belongings. It’s well sized for a small jacket, your diaper changing essentials or a few items you pick up at the store.

The F2 stroller comes in stylish black with five choices of color accents, which grace the frame and the wheels. Chose from red, white, blue, pink and yellow. The Combi F2 is available for $199. Learn more at CombiUSA.com.